Nyombi Thembo Highlights Role of Regulation in Strengthening Media Sector

KAMPALA, April 23, 2026 – The Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, Nyombi Thembo, has held discussions with Dean Lubowa Saava, proprietor of Gano Mazima TV, emphasising that regulation is not intended to suppress, but to provide a framework that promotes professional development and safeguards national safety.

Having previously operated outside the regulatory framework, resulting in his arrest and prosecution, Mr. Saava has since transitioned to become a fully licensed broadcaster. Hon. Nyombi Thembo described this dramatic turnaround as a demonstration of how content creators can achieve legitimacy and long-term sustainability by adhering to the Uganda Communications Act and related Content Regulations.

During their engagement, Hon. Nyombi Thembo reiterated the Commission’s broader goal of fostering a balanced digital environment where compliance and creative expression coexist for the benefit of all Ugandans.

He pointed to the rapid growth of Uganda’s digital ecosystem, with over 58 million mobile subscriptions and approximately 25 million unique users as evidence of the increasing need for effective public policy and oversight.

“In a landscape where over 21 million smartphones are actively in use and platforms such as TikTok and YouTube reach millions, regulation becomes essential rather than optional for ensuring safety and accountability,” he said.

To address concerns often associated with regulation, UCC is strengthening its engagement approach, prioritising dialogue with consumers and licensed operators alongside enforcement-driven interventions. The Commission believes that open communication will help resolve sector challenges more effectively while building trust among stakeholders.

As data becomes an increasingly valuable resource in the digital economy, the Commission is advancing policies that safeguard personal information while promoting responsible data usage. It is also encouraging the adoption of open data frameworks to support innovation and research.

Recognising the digital space as a key driver of youth employment, UCC continues to promote digital and media literacy. By equipping young people with the skills to use digital platforms productively, the Commission aims to position them for professional growth and economic empowerment.

Hon. Nyombi Thembo congratulated Saava on attaining full compliance status for his broadcasting outfit, describing it as a significant milestone.

“I want to congratulate Dean Lubowa Saava on obtaining his licence. This is a major step in aligning professional activities with the sector’s regulatory standards,” he said.

The engagement underscores UCC’s ongoing efforts to build a digital ecosystem that is both innovative and secure, anchored on its vision of a connected Uganda by the year 2030.